More than four in five US parents back Meta agreement for enhanced online safety measures

More than four in five parents across the United States back an agreement between state governments and Meta to enhance online safety measures for young people, according to a new survey by the Coalition to Empower our Future (CEF).

The agreement, which focuses on bolstering protections for minors on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, has garnered strong support among parents, regardless of political affiliation. Eighty-two percent of Democratic parents and 84 percent of Republican parents are in favor of the deal, highlighting a bipartisan consensus on the issue.

Glen Weiner, executive director of CEF, emphasized the need for consistent safety measures across various social media platforms. "Parents want practical tools to keep their children safe online, regardless of which platform they use. This agreement is a step in the right direction, but we need other social media companies to follow suit and implement similar protections," he stated.

According to the survey, which surveyed 1,000 parents nationwide between August 28 and August 31, 2026, parents believe that enhanced safety measures will have a positive impact on youth mental health. Eighty-two percent support expanded parental controls, and 80 percent back daily screen-time limits. Additionally, 77 percent and 76 percent of parents, respectively, favor muting notifications during school hours and overnight.

Weiner continued, "Overwhelming majorities of parents on both sides of the political spectrum want other platforms to adopt these safety measures. More than four in five parents, including 85 percent of Democratic parents and 86 percent of Republican parents, believe other social media platforms should implement the same online safety measures. This shows a clear, nationwide desire for consistent protections for young people."

Support for individual platforms was also strong, with 85 percent of parents supporting increased safety measures on TikTok, 84 percent on YouTube, and 82 percent on Snapchat.

Parents are not only advocating for better online safety measures but are also calling for legislative action. Eighty percent of parents would support their state legislature putting these safety measures into law, and 67 percent of parents would be more likely to vote for an elected official who supports these measures.

The survey findings build on previous research by CEF, which highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to youth mental health that includes practical tools and education on safe and responsible technology use. The full research findings are available [HERE].

"Weathering the storm of digital challenges requires a multi-faceted approach," said Weiner. "Giving parents more tools and helping young people develop healthier habits with technology are crucial steps in this broader strategy."

The Coalition to Empower our Future, a group bringing together diverse voices to inform solutions for youth, parents, communities, and society, supports inclusive solutions for youth mental health. Former Montana Governor Steve Bullock, former U.S. Representative Carlos Curbelo, and Dr. Caroline Carney, a board-certified psychiatrist and internist, serve on the board of directors.